figure-01
In an era dominated by technological advancements, the quest for innovation takes a significant leap forward as tech giants, including Jeff Bezos, rally behind the future of humanoid robotics. At the heart of this technological frontier is Figure AI Inc., a startup that has recently captivated the tech world by securing a staggering $675 million in funding. This financial infusion is aimed at propelling the development of robots that not only resemble humans but can also undertake tasks too perilous for human hands.
Watch the humanoid, called “Figure 01,” make a cup of coffee. The startup posted on X:
Figure 01 has learned to make coffee.
End-to-end AI system, trained in 10 hours, just by watching humans make coffee.
Our neural networks are taking video in, trajectories out
Figure 01 has learned to make coffee ☕️
Figure AI
End-to-end AI system, trained in 10 hours, just by watching humans make coffee
Our neural networks are taking video in, trajectories out
The investment landscape for Figure AI is as diverse as it is impressive, featuring contributions from industry behemoths such as OpenAI, Microsoft Corp., and Bezos’ Explore Investments LLC. Bezos himself has made a notable commitment of $100 million, highlighting the project’s potential to redefine the intersection of AI and robotics. Microsoft follows closely with a $95 million investment, while both Nvidia and an Amazon.com Inc.-affiliated fund have each pledged $50 million. This collective endeavor underscores a shared commitment to breaking new ground in AI and robotics.
Figure AI is not just about creating robots; it’s about reimagining the future of labor and safety in industries. The company’s flagship humanoid robot, Figure 01, is being engineered to mirror human appearance and mobility, with a mission to tackle hazardous tasks that currently pose risks to human workers. This innovative approach is not only expected to enhance safety in various industries but also to alleviate labor shortages by providing a robotic workforce capable of performing complex tasks.
Support for Figure AI extends beyond the initial circle of investors, drawing in contributions from Intel Corp.’s venture capital arm with $25 million, LG Innotek with $8.5 million, and Samsung’s investment group with $5 million. The involvement of these companies, along with venture firms like Parkway Venture Capital and Align Ventures, which are investing $100 million and $90 million respectively, showcases the widespread belief in the transformative potential of Figure AI’s technology. Other notable investors include ARK Venture Fund, Aliya Capital Partners, and BOLD Capital Partners, each bringing their resources to the table to support this groundbreaking venture.
As Figure AI gears up to finalize its funding details, the tech community watches with anticipation. The company’s pre-money valuation of approximately $2 billion, exclusive of the current funding round, speaks volumes about its potential impact on the AI robotics industry. With a vision to commercialize humanoid robots that can seamlessly integrate into various sectors, Figure AI stands at the precipice of a new era in technology.
The investment in Figure AI is part of a larger movement within the tech industry to explore and expand the capabilities of AI and robotics. From OpenAI-backed startups to Tesla’s Optimus project, the race is on to develop robots that can safely coexist with humans and take on tasks that enhance efficiency and safety. As these technologies evolve, the potential for humanoid robots to become an integral part of our daily lives becomes increasingly tangible.
The backing of Figure AI by tech luminaries like Jeff Bezos and the involvement of major corporations highlights a growing consensus on the importance of humanoid robotics in shaping the future. As we stand on the brink of a new chapter in AI and robotics, the endeavors of Figure AI and its supporters offer a glimpse into a world where robots could become our colleagues, safeguarding human workers and transforming the landscape of labor and industry.
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